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Brian Furness

Partner at PwC assisting financial services clients with their transformation programmes in finance, risk, operations and compliance.

Professional Background

Brian Furness is a highly respected partner at PwC, showcasing a wealth of expertise within the Financial Services and Government advisory sectors. With an impressive track record, Brian leads the Global Finance Consulting team and serves as a Senior Client Partner on several key accounts for the firm. His ability to navigate the complexities of business and operational transformation has made him a trusted advisor to some of the most esteemed organizations globally. Brian's experience spans high-profile clients, including renowned financial institutions such as HSBC, Nomura, Deutsche Bank, RBS, UBS, Nationwide, and Lloyds Banking Group.

As a committed leader in his field, Brian also plays a pivotal role in PwC's finance benchmarking initiatives, collaborating closely with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). This relationship fosters joint research and thought leadership, significantly enhancing knowledge and insights within the finance and operations sector.

Brian's current focus extends to the Government sector, where he directs initiatives pertaining to cost and back office transformations, both at central and local government levels. His mission is to streamline operational efficiencies and enhance service delivery, ensuring that government organizations can thrive amidst financial challenges.

Education and Achievements

Brian Furness holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Economics from The University of Sheffield, which provided him with a solid foundation in analytical thinking and quantitative analysis. This educational background equips him with the skills needed to evaluate complex financial systems and develop robust operational strategies.

Areas of Expertise

With a keen eye for innovation and efficiency, Brian’s expertise encompasses a range of areas vital to business success:

  • Operating Model Design: He has a profound understanding of workforce transformation and how organizational structures can be optimized to deliver maximum value.
  • Business Model and Back Office Transformation: His work focuses on enhancing back office operations, ensuring they are lean, efficient, and cost-effective.
  • Digital Transformation: Brian recognizes the importance of embracing digital technologies in transforming business operations and enhancing client engagement.
  • Process Optimisation: He employs various methodologies to streamline operations and reduce waste, further driving the effectiveness of the organizations he advises.
  • Risk, Control, and Regulatory Change: Given the ever-evolving regulatory landscape, Brian helps clients navigate compliance challenges while managing risks effectively.
  • Strategic and Operational Cost Reduction: He works diligently to identify areas for cost savings without compromising on quality or service.
  • Strategic Sourcing: Brian assists clients in designing and optimizing shared service centers; ensuring that they leverage economies of scale and best practices.

His broad international experience with PwC has prepared him to adeptly handle the intricacies of complex cross-border change programs, making him a valuable asset to any organization seeking transformation and efficiency.

Overall, Brian Furness's career exemplifies a strong commitment to excellence and leadership within the financial and government advisory landscapes. His comprehensive knowledge and hands-on approach to problem-solving empower his clients to not just meet their operational goals but exceed them, all while driving innovation and fostering teamwork. As he continues to lead pivotal transformation programs, Brian is sure to leave a lasting impact on the industries he serves, inspiring future generations of leaders in finance and beyond.

Highlights

Nov 17 · PR Newswire
New survey finds that finance functions to 'break free' of constraints of annual cycles - with 82% saying stakeholders need more than financial performance measures - PR Newswire

Related Questions

How did Brian Furness develop his expertise in operational transformation within financial services and government sectors?
What initiatives has Brian Furness led at PwC to enhance finance benchmarking with the ACCA?
How is Brian Furness addressing the cost and back office transformation agenda in government organizations?
What are the particular challenges Brian Furness has faced while working on cross-border change programs?
How does Brian Furness see the role of digital transformation evolving in the finance sector?
Brian Furness
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Location

London, United Kingdom